Fluffy bread rolls with cheese and rosemary

Fluffy Cheese and Rosemary Bread – A Homemade Delicacy

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Rising Time: 60 minutes
Baking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 95 minutes
Number of Servings: 12-15 breads

A Brief Introduction to the Story of Fluffy Breads

Fluffy cheese and rosemary breads are a perfect choice for breakfast, a delicious snack, or even an accompaniment to a family meal. Inspired by the tradition of making bread at home, these delicacies have gained popularity worldwide due to their soft texture and enticing flavors. Rosemary, with its distinctive aroma, pairs perfectly with melted cheese, and when baked, these breads emit an irresistible fragrance that will fill your kitchen with warmth.

Necessary Ingredients

- 650 g wheat flour (ideal for bread)
- 330 ml warm water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dry yeast
- 2 egg yolks for brushing (optional for a shinier appearance)
- 100 g grated cheese (preferably a type that melts well)
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh or dried rosemary (to taste)

Preparation Technique – Step by Step

1. Preparing the Dough
Start by preparing the dough using a bread machine, which will save you time and effort. In the machine's bowl, add the ingredients in the following order: sugar, salt, oil, water, flour, and yeast. This order allows the yeast to activate the fermentation process without coming into direct contact with the salt, which could inhibit its activity.

2. Selecting the Program
Choose the dough program on the bread machine and let it do its job. Normally, this program takes about an hour, but it’s best to follow the specific instructions of your device.

3. Rising the Dough
At the end of the program, remove the dough from the bowl and place it in a lightly floured bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place, away from drafts, until it doubles in size (about 30-60 minutes).

4. Shaping the Breads
Once the dough has risen, wet your hands with a little oil to prevent sticking. Divide the dough into portions the size of a tangerine and form balls. Use a rolling pin to flatten each ball into a sheet about 10 cm in diameter. You can place them on a large tray or use individual molds, as I did, for a more pleasing appearance.

5. Preparing for Baking
Line the tray or molds with flour. Using a knife blade, make light slashes on the surface of the dough, forming a grid pattern. This will not only help with aesthetics but will also allow steam to escape during baking. Let them rise for another 20-30 minutes, covered with a towel.

6. Brushing and Adding Toppings
Beat the two egg yolks well and, using a brush, glaze each bread. This step will give a golden and shiny crust. Generously sprinkle grated cheese and rosemary on each bread for a wonderful flavor.

7. Baking
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place the tray in the oven and bake the breads for about 20 minutes, or until they are golden and well-browned. It’s essential to check them from time to time, as each oven may have its peculiarities.

8. Cooling and Serving
After baking, remove the breads from the oven and let them cool on a rack. These breads are excellent served warm but can also be enjoyed at room temperature.

Useful Tips

- Choosing the Flour: Use type 650 flour for the best results. This will give the breads a fluffy texture.
- Yeast: Ensure the yeast is fresh. You can check this by dissolving it in warm water with a little sugar; if it bubbles, it’s active.
- Variations: You can add olives, chopped onions, or herbs to the dough for extra flavor. Substitute the cheese with feta or mozzarella to change the flavor profile.
- Serving: These breads pair wonderfully with a warm soup or can be used as a base for delicious sandwiches.

Nutritional Benefits

These breads are a good source of carbohydrates, essential for energy, and depending on the type of cheese used, they can also provide protein and calcium. Rosemary not only adds flavor but is also a powerful antioxidant, having beneficial effects on digestion and the immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use fresh yeast instead of dry yeast?
Yes, you can use fresh yeast; for each packet of dry yeast, use about 25 g of fresh yeast.

- How can I tell if the breads are baked enough?
You can check by tapping lightly on the bottom of the breads. If it sounds hollow, they are done. They should also be browned on top.

- Can I freeze these breads?
Absolutely! Let them cool completely, then wrap them well in plastic wrap or freezer bags. You can reheat them in the oven before serving to restore their fluffy texture.

In Short

These fluffy cheese and rosemary breads are a wonderful choice for any occasion, whether it’s a family breakfast, a festive meal, or simply a snack. Their aroma and texture will captivate you from the very first bite. So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the magic of cooking at home!